Day-trippers take the short ferry trip here and endeavor to see as much as possible during a whistle-stop tour of our visitor attractions; often exasperatedly claiming “I’ll be back” as they rush to catch the boat back to our sister island.
So, this weeks’ VisitGozo blog aims to offset future disappointment as it celebrates 10 reasons why Gozo is more than simply a daytrip destination.
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Gozo has a diverse selection of popular and lesser known beaches, bays and coves. Ramla is renowned for its vibrant red sand whereas Marsalforn’s coastal resort offers café culture by the sea. In contrast, Xlendi’s charming fishing village and bay lets you swim, soak up the sun and sample wonderful cuisine from local restaurants specialising in fish dishes created from the freshly landed catch of the colourful boats lining the shore. Yet, lesser known and more remote beaches such as Ħondoq Bay, San Blas, Mġarr ix-Xini and Daħlet Qorrot are equally idyllic havens for sunbathing, swimming or snorkeling. Venture off of the tourist trail to enjoy some of these coastal gems.
There’s a reason why photographers and artists flock to Gozo. It’s because of the island’s bewitching light. Any island visitor can admire the beauty of the landscapes and buildings – yet witness these bathed in the intimate light of sunrise or sunset and you’ll be transfixed by this transcendental experience.
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Why not climb up to the Bastions of the Cittadella in Victoria to admire panoramic views of Gozo’s hills and valleys? From this historic vantage point you are assured a perfect vista as you wait for mother nature to paint the perfect picture.
Plus, once the sun has gone down what’s a few more hours here and there? As darkness falls look upwards to gaze in wonder at our star-laden skies. Gozo’s rugged and unspoilt natural scenery make it an ideal location for stargazing and viewing the vastness of our universe. In fact, Dwejra on our western coast has Dark Sky Heritage Status and is a celebrated region for spotting stars, planets, space stations, the annual Perseid meteor showers, eclipses and even The Milky Way. You’ll be able to see The Milky Way here in a way which hasn’t been possible in many capital cities for decades.
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Gozo is an island where unique coincidences happen, just be open and receptive to them. Friendships can be forged for life after a brief chance encounter. So, venture out of your comfort zone and see where it takes you. Wander our historic villages and explore their cobbled back-streets. More importantly chat to the locals, don’t be surprised if they invite you in for tea. Ensure you make time to savour our fine Gozitan cuisine – such as our local sun-dried tomatoes, rich Gozitan cheeses not forgetting to wash this down with our flavoursome Gozitan wine.
Summer festa celebrations are an easy way to immerse yourself in Gozitan culture and tradition. Most Gozitans love fireworks and Festas and these events are steeped in history and tradition. Watch brightly decorated villages and churches brim with locals as they celebrate their saints through religious ceremonies, marching parades and elaborate firework displays.
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Gozo’s calm crystal blue waters attract diverse marine life ensuring it upholds its status as one of the Mediterranean’s top diving resorts. Plus, our award-winning clean coast (Gozo is a Quality Coast destination) hosts many water-based sports activities from swimming, snorkeling and kayaking to stand up-paddle-boarding, water-skiing and even freediving. Have fun in the sun as you get sand in between your toes and salt water up your nose.
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Throughout the year Gozo is alive with music and celebration. During Spring and Summer months our calendars are packed as we try and factor in all of the free music, food and cultural events taking place: from Gaulitana Festival of Music to Gozo Alive, Gozo Rocks and Pops, Leone Goes Pop, Rock Astra, Opera Festivals, Folk and Jazz festivals. Many of these free events bring music to Gozo’s theatres and open spaces, so whichever genre of music you may love, join the beat!
Gozo’s Christ on the Mountain, locally known as Tas-Salvatur is one of the most meaningful landmarks and places of pilgrimage. Standing 320-feet above sea level on Tal-Merzuq hill, our 6 metre high Jesus Christ designed by artist Carmel Grech, envelops our island in his huge welcoming embrace. Don’t just shuttle past him on a tour while you circumnavigate Gozo. Instead, make the meaningful journey up the hillside. Witness this amazing statue up close and observe the calmness on the hill as you enjoy a 360-degree view of the island.
Put on your comfy boots and shoes and get hiking! Gozo is a small accessible island with many well-worn and much adored country and coastal trails. Wonder at the wildlife during a rugged coastal walk. Why not take a hike from Marsalforn Bay through to Ramla or delight in the remote beauty of Mġarr ix-Xini as you trek through to Ix-Xatt l-Aħmar? You’ll witness a completely different view of Dwejra when you approach it walking from Kerċem through to L-Għadira.
We couldn’t finish without adding this entry. It’s hard to put into words the ease at which our island de-stresses you. Gozo has a relaxed pace of life and its own kind of rhythm. It can sometimes take a day or two before you start to fully de-stress, relax and to get in synch with our island’s laid-back nature and rhythm. Simply breathe, relax and enjoy!
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